Footwear design is being updated with tech from the home or auto industry
Trend - Footwear designers and brands are attempting to revolutionize their category by borrowing sensibilities from other industries—the home and auto sector, in particular. From borrowing distribution models to incorporating unexpected tech features, the designs are pushing the envelope both aesthetically and functionally.
Insight - Impressed and inspired by the state of human progress as impacted by the expansion of innovations in technology, consumers are increasingly investing interest and time in cutting-edge products and experiences. This is true especially for individuals who consider themselves enthusiasts in tech or other categories impacted by innovation. Rooted in a desire for novelty, contemporary consumers are looking for ways to satisfy their genuine curiosity.
Insight - Impressed and inspired by the state of human progress as impacted by the expansion of innovations in technology, consumers are increasingly investing interest and time in cutting-edge products and experiences. This is true especially for individuals who consider themselves enthusiasts in tech or other categories impacted by innovation. Rooted in a desire for novelty, contemporary consumers are looking for ways to satisfy their genuine curiosity.
Workshop Question - What technology/strategy can your brand effectively borrow from an adjacent industry?
Trend Themes
1. Borrowing From Other Industries - Footwear designers are revolutionizing their category by borrowing sensibilities from other industries including the home and auto sectors.
2. Incorporating Unexpected Tech - Footwear designers are incorporating various pieces of technology into their designs, such as GPS tags, voice assistants, electroluminescent fabric and rubber technology for better grip and stability.
3. P2P Services - The rise of P2P services for electric scooters, cars and bicycles is inspiring Reebok's 'shareable shoe service' where consumers can rent shoes and travel sustainably.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion - Fashion professionals can look at borrowing elements from other industries and incorporating technology into their designs to create new and innovative products.
2. Sports - Sports professionals can benefit from borrowing technology from other industries to enhance the features of their athletic gear, such as rubber technology for better grip and stability.
3. Personal Mobility Services - Business professionals in personal mobility services can expand their business models to offer 'shareable shoe services' that promote sustainability and improve health.
